Show 123, May 23, 2015: Executive Chef/Proprietor Andrew Kirschner, Santa Monica Yacht Club and Tar & Roses, Santa Monica

Andrew KirschnerBefore he ventured out on his own to open the popular Tar & Roses in Santa Monica in 2012, Executive Chef Andrew Kirschner was best known as Executive Chef and partner at Wilshire, also in Santa Monica.

Now Chef Kirschner is expanding his restaurant empire with the launch of the Santa Monica Yacht Club located a short walk away from Tar & Roses on Santa Monica Blvd. Unlike Tar & Roses with its emphasis on the wood-burning grill the focus at SMYC is on seafood with small plates. Also different from Tar & Roses is that SMYC has a full bar.

“With Tar & Roses Kirschner aims to share a restaurant that speaks to his travels and deeply ingredient-focused food philosophy. With influences from around the world and the rustic touch of a wood-burning oven, quality ingredients and bold flavors combine to create a menu that merges classical cuisine with modern sensibilities.”

Andrew Kirschner is our guest.

Show 24, April 6, 2013: Mark Echeverria, the General Manager & Proprietor of the Musso & Frank Grill in Hollywood

Musso and Frank Grill in HollywoodThere is tremendous development and continued renewal going on in the heart of Hollywood and one grand institution which has endured since 1919 is the venerable Musso & Frank Grill. It’s rich history is intertwined with the great tradition of the entertainment business in Hollywood. Industry deals are still made there to this day!

Mark Echeverria is the great-grandson of John Mosso who purchased the restaurant, with a partner, in the late 20s. He is dedicated to preserving the great tradition of Musso’s in Hollywood.

Since 1919 there have been only three executive chefs at Musso & Frank Grill. The current chef, J.P. Amateau (the son of a Hollywood producer/director,) preserves the traditions of the past while keeping the menu up-to-date. Wood-burning grills are all the rage these days but Musso & Frank Grill has been expertly grilling their popular steaks over wood (in full view of the guests at the counter) since the beginning. The new room (added in 1953) has the long bar and classic cocktails are the order of the day.

Many of the waiters (attired in distinctive red jackets) and bartenders have been there for years. They are proud of being career servers and providing for their families. Sergio Gonzalez has been serving satisfied guests for 41 years and there are more like him at Musso’s.